Biomass-derived N-doping porous carbon spheres by N2 plasma for lithium-ion batteries

The cost-effectiveness and renewability of biomass-derived carbon spheres have important advantages for wide application, yet efficient synthesis methods and green activation studies are still challenging. Here, hemicellulose from corncobs was extracted, and then N2 plasma technology was used to modify the carbon spheres produced from hemicellulose in a single process. The effect of hydrothermal reaction parameters on the yield of carbon spheres was investigated, and the optimal preparation conditions were determined with solid-liquid ratio of 1:10 (g/mL), reaction time of 12 h, and pH of 1.5. The modified carbon spheres featured 3.02% nitrogen content and mesoporous structure. As an anode material for a lithium-ion battery, the modified sample has a specific capacity of 232.1 mAh g(-1) after 50 cycles at 0.1 A g(-1). In this study, biomass-derived carbon spheres containing multifunctional groups were prepared under green and mild conditions, and this innovative process provides an effective basis for the sustainable utilization of biomass.